macFUSE GUI logo for SSHFS on macOS
macFUSEGui

Install guide

Install macFUSE and SSHFS on Mac

Use this page when you want the fastest path from prerequisites to a working mount. Install macFUSE, install SSHFS, choose the correct build, complete first-launch approval, and test your first remote.

Step 1: Install prerequisites

Install macFUSE first, then install sshfs. macFUSEGui depends on both for the underlying filesystem and transport behavior.

brew install --cask macFUSE
brew install gromgit/fuse/sshfs-mac

Step 2: Choose the correct build

Run uname -m to confirm your CPU architecture. Use the Apple Silicon build for arm64 and the Intel build for x86_64.

Choosing the wrong build is a common avoidable install mistake when someone forwards a link or downloads from another machine.

uname -m

Step 3: Complete first-launch approval

Current public builds are unsigned and not notarized. Open the app from Finder with right-click or Control-click and choose Open.

If macOS blocks the app, approve it from System Settings > Privacy & Security and retry.

Step 4: Add your first remote

  1. Create a remote entry with host, username, auth mode, remote path, and local mount point.
  2. Test the connection from the UI before you rely on the mount in Finder.
  3. Connect the remote and open the mounted path in Finder or your editor.

Step 5: If install fails

  • Recheck that both macFUSE and sshfs are installed.
  • Make sure you downloaded the correct build for your Mac.
  • Confirm the first-launch approval flow completed successfully.
  • Use troubleshooting for auth, mount-point, reconnect, or stale-mount issues.

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